Southbank Centre celebrates African arts and culture

Southbank Centre’s Africa Utopia festival celebrated the arts and culture of one of the world's most dynamic and fast-changing continents and looked at how Africa can lead the way in thinking about society, community, business and technology, fashion, gender, power, politics, sustainability and activism.

The beauty of African culture has sparked curiosity and interest throughout the world. As the West becomes more familiar with the rich and fascinating traditions from the African continent, the desire to experience a taste of the culture has also increased.

Toumani and Sidiki Diabate, Baba Maal at Africa Utopia

Toumani and Sidiki Diabate, Baba Maal at Africa Utopia

Following the success of the sensational first event in 2012, Africa Utopia returned to Southbank Centre’s main-stages to take a look at what can be learned and celebrated from Africa and the African Diaspora. It took place from September 10 – 13, and was a true celebration of the rich variety of African culture, spanning North to South.

Toumani Diabate ,Baba Maal, Damon Albarn ,Tony Allen at Africa Utopia

Festival-goers saw a stunning array of panels, talks and workshops, looking at how business, trade and education is shaping the continent and how Africa can help solve the world’s problems.

The fun-filled festival highlighted the many ways that the continent can lead discussions and influence culture and community in the Western world. It combined forms of African art and culture, encouraging a new wave of appreciation for African art, music and literature.